Nearly a third (31%) of contractors will not take on an apprentice at the moment as a result of the recession, according to research by Construction Skills which is urging firms to do the opposite.
The sector skills council says large contractors must use their influence on their supply chains to ensure that new talent is encouraged into the industry.

'Apprentices are vital to sustain the future of businesses said Mike Bialyj, employer services director of ConstructionSkills. He added:'Apprentices are the key to improving construction's business and environmental sustainability. It is important that figures such as this are a blip and not a trend, to avoid losing talented people from the industry forever. We call on construction firms to work with us to take on apprentices and bring in the people in who will be the mainstay of your team now and in the future. We know because we see it all the time - apprentices are good for business'.

For details about how Construction Skills Apprenticeships can benefit firms call 0344 944 4044 or visit www.cskills.org/apprenticeships